Countywide telephone scam warning

27 November 2012

Police are warning of a new scam that officers were alerted to last night, Monday 26 November, after a man telephoned residents claiming to work for a water company.

Officers were contacted by two separate Lowestoft residents around 9.30pm – 10.30pm yesterday reporting they had taken a call from a man who claimed there was lead in their water supply, it was contaminated and they shouldn’t use it.

In the first call the alert lady resident said she hadn’t heard about in the media and the man told her that he didn’t want to alarm anyone. He said someone would be coming round to see her but in the meantime told her not to drink or wash with it.

The woman said she didn’t want anyone to come round and finished the call.

In the second call the male resident was told about the lead and then quizzed about his medical history before the man said he would need medical help and it was on its way.

Both residents were highly sceptical about the claims and contacted Essex and Suffolk Water who confirmed there was no problem with the supply.

Police were then alerted.

Both residents also did 1471 to try and get a telephone number for the caller. Through this a mobile number was obtained and police have phoned this with the person answering hanging up when questions were asked. Enquiries are continuing.

Officers are again urging residents to be alert and cautious when dealing with any unknown callers. Never give out personal information and if you suspect it may be a hoax hang up and check with the company or organisation concerned, using a number on a bill or in the phone book, as these alert residents did.